The reason I recommend refreshing with a little water and conditioner is to make our curls spring back to life after being smashed down in a braid (or other protective style) all night. I usually just wet my hands, add a bit of conditioner, rub my hands together and smooth over my ends a few times. This usually isn't enough to make my hair more than barely damp, so it often is dry before I even leave the house.

If this is still too wet, there are a few options: you could not wet your hair, and just have it a bit flatter that day, or you could wear more protective styles in the winter (I often keep my hair pinned up in winter, but that's in part because I'm lazy). You could use less conditioner and water, or set your hair at night in something like two strand twists, which don't need any water in the morning (water ruins sets).

But honestly, to have our curls in full curl mode, nothing is better than a little water and combing conditioner. So that's why maybe putting it up during the day (so you don't need any water) and only wearing it down and curly on warmer days, or days you have a bit of time to let it dry might be best. I hope that helps!